SAN DIEGO – A Grand Prairie, Texas native and 2000 South Grand Prairie High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard USS Wayne E. Meyer.

Petty Officer 1st Class Ricky Carrillo is a damage controlman aboard the guided-missile destroyer operating out of San Diego.

A Navy damage controlman is responsible for the overall damage control readiness of the ship by ensuring the rest of the ship’s personnel are trained in the methods of damage control, which includes firefighting, fire prevention and shoring.

“I was raised with the value that hard work pays off and have brought that to my Navy career,”Carrillo said.

More than 300 sailors serve aboard the ship, and their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.

“The success of our Surface Force ships is measured by our ability to provide Fleet Commanders with combat naval power at sea and to project that power ashore where and when it matters,” said Vice Adm. Richard A. Brown, commander, Naval Surface Forces. “It’s hard work to ready ships for combat operations at sea – it takes the talent of an entire crew working well together. I’m extremely proud of the each and every surface warrior’s contributions to the Navy’s enduring mission of protecting and defending America, at home and around the world.”

A Navy destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.

Carrillo has military ties with family members who have previously served, and he is honored to carry on the family tradition.

“I have uncles and cousins that served in the military, so there is a great sense of family pride in serving our country,” Carrillo said.

Carrillo’s proudest accomplishment is the commitment he has made to this country.

“Serving in the Navy has made me a better person,” said Carrillo.

As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Carrillo and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes.

“The Navy has allowed me to be a positive role model for my younger siblings and filled me with pride,” Carrillo added.